Sudan head coach Kwesi Appiah has praised the growth and evolution of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, describing the competition as one that has improved “tremendously in every department” over the years.
Speaking ahead of Sudan’s Group E opening match against Algeria in Rabat, Appiah reflected on the tournament’s progress and the higher professional standards now associated with Africa’s flagship football competition.
The former Ghana international, who represented the Black Stars between 1982 and 1992, was part of the squad that won the AFCON title in 1982. Drawing from that experience, Appiah said the transformation of the tournament goes well beyond what happens on the pitch.
“When I look at where the Africa Cup of Nations was during my playing days and where it is now, the growth is extraordinary,” Appiah said. “Today’s AFCON offers a professional environment that allows players and technical teams to perform at their very best.”
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Appiah pointed to significant improvements in infrastructure, including stadiums, training facilities and recovery areas, as key indicators of the competition’s progress.
“Players now walk into stadiums and training facilities that inspire confidence,” he said. “The pitches, dressing rooms and recovery areas are all designed to support performance.”
He also highlighted advances in organisation and logistics, noting that these elements have played a major role in improving the overall tournament experience.
“The organisation around teams has improved massively,” Appiah added. “Transport is reliable, accommodation is excellent, and planning is done in a way that allows teams to focus fully on football. These details matter, especially at a major tournament.”
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